These FAQs are designed for players and families who are new to ESSLL or are considering joining our league.
If you are looking for information about fees, volunteer requirements, and registration details for Spring 2026,
please visit our
Registration FAQs.
If your question is not answered on this page, you can also email us at
[email protected].
Do I have to try out to join a team?
Currently, tryouts are not required to join one of our recreational teams. You only need to
register during the open registration period.
East Stroudsburg Softball Little League (ESSLL) focuses on helping each player learn the foundations of softball,
build skills, and grow a love of the game.
This may change for the Spring 2026 season. ESSLL is exploring the possibility of player evaluations or tryouts
to help with team placement, safety, and competitive balance. If we introduce evaluations or tryouts, we will clearly
communicate this to all families before registration closes.
Where can I learn the rules of softball?
ESSLL is part of Little League International and follows Little League rules and regulations.
You can access the official rules through the Little League Rulebook App:
Little League Rulebook App
We also encourage families to learn the basics of softball strategy and terminology. Our
Softball Resources section includes additional materials
to help players and parents better understand the game.
How old do I need to be to play?
Per Little League rules, girls ages 4 through 16 are eligible to play in ESSLL.
Little League uses something called league age, which is based on your age on
December 31 prior to the spring season. The year in which a player turns 17 is her last year of eligibility.
To calculate league age, use the:
Little League Age Calculator
I've never played before. Will that be an issue?
Not at all. New players are absolutely welcome.
Many of our most confident and skilled players started with no prior experience. Our coaches and league volunteers
are here to teach fundamentals, build confidence, and help every player learn at her own pace.
Please don’t let a lack of experience stop you from registering. We will guide you and help you learn what you need
to know to be successful.
What do I need to be a part of the league?
To be part of East Stroudsburg Softball Little League, you’ll need:
- A positive attitude and willingness to learn
- Effort and commitment to your team (softball is a team sport)
- Regular attendance at practices and games
- Completed registration during the registration window
If your family is experiencing a financial hardship, please reach out to us at
[email protected]. We will do our best to help.
What equipment will I need?
In general, players should have:
- Softball cleats
- Fielding face mask
- Softball glove
- A labeled water bottle
- Comfortable athletic clothing suitable for softball
Cleats
- Instructionals, Minors, Majors: Rubber softball cleats are required.
- Seniors: Metal cleats are allowed.
Bats
If you choose to purchase a bat, it must be ASA-compliant and meet Little League standards.
Learn more here:
Little League Bat Rules
If this is your first season, we recommend waiting to purchase equipment until after speaking with your coach.
ESSLL may also have limited equipment available to borrow.
How often do you practice?
Most teams practice at least twice per week in the evenings, especially early in the season.
The exact number of practices depends on coach availability, field availability, and the division.
Practice schedules are set closer to the start of the season once teams and coaches are confirmed. Schedules may change
due to weather, field conditions, and other factors.
How often are games played?
Games are typically played on both weeknights and weekends. You can generally expect around
two games per week, depending on your division and schedule.
Game schedules are created by the league and may be adjusted for weather, make-up games, and district requirements.
Do I need to know what position I want to play?
No. You do not need to know your position before you join the league.
If you have a position you are interested in, let your coach know. Your coach will work with you to explore options,
identify your strengths, and help you find positions that are a good fit for you and your team.
What are the timeframes of the seasons?
- Spring Season: Usually April through June (weather dependent).
- Fall Season: Usually late August through late October.
- Winter Clinics: Typically held January through early spring.
Exact dates can vary year to year based on weather, gym and field availability, and district schedules.
What else do I need to know?
We want your softball experience to be positive and rewarding. Talent and skill can get you on the field.
A great attitude, effort, and teamwork make you a true success.
Work hard, be a great teammate, and remember that every practice and game is a chance to learn, grow, and have fun.
We would love to hear from you.